In a race that had this conservative confronting my own convictions, Mark Sanford has won the special election for South Carolina's 1st District. As you may recall, Sanford gained fame..er..imfamy by visiting
his mistress in Argentina while claiming to be "hiking the Appalachian trail." His wife then divorced him, and it appeared his political career was over. However, I guess even wayward sons can win elections if
the voters are stacked enough in their favor.

Sanford's 54% won the day but pales when compared to Mitt Romney's 18-point advantage in this district last year. Perhaps there were plenty of values voters like me who decided to sit out the
proceedings rather than cast a vote for someone who has demonstrated such a lack of values. Am I happy a Republican held this seat? When I look at the balance of power in the House, sure I
am. But, frankly, this was a seat I would not have minded losing once Sanford got the nomination.